As part of the NRL’s Indigenous Round, the nib Newcastle Knights have teamed up with Cultural Choice Association (CCA) to raise awareness and to support the prevention of Indigenous youth suicide in Australia.
When the Knights run out for their May 24 clash against the Sydney Roosters, they will be wearing custom Indigenous painted boots as part of Indigenous Round celebrations.
MATCH WORN INDIGENOUS BOOTS AUCTION: BIDDING STARTS AT FULLTIME
The boots initiative is the brainchild of Knights five-eighth Connor Watson and his parents, CCA founders Mark and Jodie Watson.
“It began three years ago with dad painting my boots as a way for us to celebrate our culture, when I approached the Knights about doing the whole team they were really supportive and got behind us and all of the boys were keen to be a part of it too,” Watson said.
“It’s a lot of work but we’ve had a lot of help from Kirinari Hostel, The Glen Centre and Baxter Juvenile Detention Centre.
“The guys at each organisation have been so excited to be a part of it; learning about the players, their background and their culture to create their custom designs.”
CCA is a newly established not for profit whose dream is to support the prevention of Indigenous youth suicide in Australia, with a focus on preventative measures centred around education, mentoring and wellbeing.
“We would like all Indigenous children to believe in a future without limitation," Watson said.
If you or someone you know needs help or support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 (24 hours-a-day), contact your local Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisation, call Beyondblue on 1300 22 4636 or call Q Life: 1800 184 527.
